Dialogue Between Nepal Police and Transgender Sex Workers: Addressing Safety, Human Rights, and Dignity
2024
Organized by: Maya Ko Sansar (World of Love)
Supporting Partner: Mitini Nepal
On 2081 Baisakh 30, Maya Ko Sansar (World of Love), with support from Mitini Nepal, organized a powerful and constructive dialogue program between Nepal Police officials and the transgender sex worker community. The central focus of the event was to discuss critical issues related to safety, dignity, human rights, health, and identity of transgender sex workers, with a special emphasis on building mutual understanding and accountability.
Key Participants:
Chief Guest: SSP Basanta Rajaure, District Police Range, Kathmandu
DSPs from Chakrapath, Durbar Marg, and officers from the Kalimati Women’s Cell
Representatives from the National Human Rights Commission
LGBTQIA+ activists, transgender sex workers, and human rights defenders
Sudip Thing, Program Coordinator, Maya Ko Sansar
Key Issues Discussed:
The dialogue included an open discussion on the theme of “Sex, Gender, and Sexuality”, and how the state’s response—including that of the police—impacts the lives of transgender sex workers. Community members shared personal experiences of harassment, humiliation, and violence at the hands of law enforcement and the public, often simply for expressing their identity or engaging in survival sex work.
Presentation of Evidence:
Maya Ko Sansar presented photo and video evidence of abuse and power misuse by police officers against transgender individuals. These included incidents of:
Verbal abuse and public humiliation
Arbitrary arrests and extortion
Discriminatory treatment based on gender expression and profession
Response from Police Leadership:
SSP Basanta Rajaure responded positively, acknowledging the community’s pain and concerns. He stated:
“We must think better and do better. If any of our police officers are found harassing or mistreating you, please report directly to me. I stand with you.”
His commitment to ensure better police behavior, respect, and accountability was received with cautious hope and appreciation by the community.
Involvement of Human Rights Commission:
Representatives from the National Human Rights Commission were present and expressed serious concern about the human rights violations faced by transgender individuals. They committed to documenting these issues and raising them at the national policy level.
Organizational Message:
Maya Ko Sansar strongly emphasized during the event:
“Whether or not we have a budget, what matters is dignity, safety, health, identity, and human rights of our community. That will always be our priority.”
This event marked a significant milestone in ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between law enforcement and marginalized gender-diverse communities. Maya Ko Sansar continues to coordinate with relevant authorities to ensure that respect and protection are not conditional—but fundamental.